Friday, August 17, 2012

Greetings, fellow nontrads! The University if Tennessee will begin classes in a few short days. Don't know if I told you, but I after getting my Bachelor's in History, I promptly got a job in the Department of Mathematics. I love it! I have been taking Master's classes in Human Resource Management. Haven't taken my GRE yet (I am terrified of it!!!) and have not been admitted into the program, but I have applied to the Graduate School as a non-degree seeking student. Will let you know how things go!

I have seen such an influx in nontraditional students on campus in the last year! I would attribute that to both the economy and early retirement buy-outs. What do you think? I am excited by the increase in nontrads. We help to bolster graduation rates since we are more apt to graduate within a few years than our younger counterparts.

I want to take this opportunity to encourage my fellow nontrads as they return to school - either online or on campus. You can do it!! Stay tuned . . .

Monday, January 9, 2012

Here we are again - spring semester. Classes at UT start on Wednesday, January 11, 2012. I am taking classes again this semester. I am going to explore a Master's in Human Resources Management. I have a 500 level Human Resource Management class on Monday nights and a writing class (Business and Technical Writing) on Tuesday and Thursdays.

Several people have asked me recently, "Didn't you graduate?" "Yes, in May." "Then why are you still taking classes?" "I love to learn!" They scratch their heads and walk away, totally befuddled.

The collegiate atmosphere and the tuition-free perk combine to motivate me to continue my education. I told one of the math profs this afternoon that I tried to make it as a professional student, but it wasn't a very lucrative career move. Oh, well.

My advice for anyone who is considering returning to school:1. Take it one step at a time. Try one class at the community college.2. Yes, you CAN do this. It's like riding a bike. There are lots of nontrads out there and many colleges have increased their resources for nontrads.3. This is a huge goal to set, but an even bigger one to accomplish. You are capable of accomplishing this goal.

Share your story with others! People will be encouraged by your story. Hang in there and have a great semester! Stay tuned . . .

Links I like

Welcome to a Blog for Older Non-Traditional Students

Being an older nontraditional student is not always easy as we try to negotiate through a sea of younger faces and attitudes. We think things like, "Will I be able to relate to these 'kids' and fit in?", "Do I remember how to study, write papers, etc.?", "How do I apply for Financial Aid?", "What if I fail a class?". Life is an adventure to be lived - nothing ventured, nothing gained. As nontrads, our goal is still the same as our younger counterparts - to get our degree, whether we are on campus or online.